Navigating the Trade Triangle

The UK Government has set out an ambitious framework for economic growth through its Modern Industrial Strategy, Trade Strategy and Small Business Plan. Together, these strategies have the potential to strengthen productivity, investment, innovation and international trade across the UK. But how do these ambitions translate into reality for businesses on the ground?

The All-Party Parliamentary Group for International Trade & Investment spoke directly to businesses, trade associations, financial institutions and regional organisations through evidence sessions and roundtables in Teesside, Belfast and Windsor. The message was consistent: businesses broadly support the direction of travel, but the success of the ‘Trade Triangle’ will depend on delivery. Support for R&D, skills, finance, exports and business growth exists, but is too often fragmented, difficult to navigate and poorly signposted.

The inquiry also highlights the importance of place. Businesses want support that reflects the strengths and needs of local economies, while skills shortages, access to finance, regulatory complexity, late payments and barriers to exporting continue to constrain growth.

Our report sets out seven recommendations to bridge the gap between policy ambition and practical delivery — helping businesses, particularly SMEs, to grow, invest and compete internationally. The challenge now is to turn the Government’s ambitions into tangible economic outcomes in every part of the UK.

Read our report below

  • "We will continue to be both a cheerleader of UK success and a critical friend on behalf of businesses large and small. We believe the recommendations made in this inquiry will help supercharge trade, delivering new prosperity to every part of the UK."

    Mike Reader MP, Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on International Trade & Investment

  • "It was very important for us as an APPG to take this inquiry outside of the Westminster bubble and to listen to the voice of business across the UK. As an appg we believe this has strengthened the inquiry and has given it a depth it otherwise would not have had."

    Baroness Arlene Foster, Vice-Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on International Trade & Investment

  • "This report is very timely as UK businesses are coming to terms with the new fragmented world trade environment. It emphasises what we need to do and every minister should read it, if they care about growing the UK economy and making the UK wealthier and more secure."

    Lord Dominic Johson, Vice-Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group for International Trade & Investment